In an address brimming with triumphs and ambitious plans for Boston's future, Mayor Michelle Wu laid out her vision for the city in her 2025 State of the City Address. According to the official transcript published by the City of Boston, Wu celebrated the strides made in public safety, health, housing, business growth, and racial equity.
Wu pointed to the tangible improvements under her leadership: a major reduction in gun violence, achieving new historic lows each year, and substantial investments, such as $150 million in city contracts awarded to businesses owned by people of color—more than doubling the value since 2021. However, Wu underscored the challenges posed by a federal administration intent on undermining the values that sustain cities like Boston. She stressed that Boston's community and institutions are "under attack" but remained defiant, stating to the City of Boston, "We will defend the people we love with all that we’ve got."
The housing sector received notable focus in Wu's speech. She reported the construction of over 11,000 new housing units and highlighted efforts to make homes more affordable through anti-displacement plans and innovative programs like the Co-Purchasing Pilot Program. Wu emphasized the importance of family and community in shaping the city's housing strategy, saying to the City of Boston, "The best city for families should make it easy to live with the people you love."
Education and youth programs were highlighted as areas of progress and continued commitment. Wu announced advanced math programs within Boston Public Schools, free arts programming in community centers through BCYF Creates, and increased accessibility to the city's rich historical and cultural offerings, as detailed by the City of Boston. She celebrated the city's educational partnerships, adding that "We are connecting our young people to an excellent expansive education."
In terms of infrastructure and environmental initiatives, Wu spoke about the Boston Energy Saver partnership set to provide $150 million in state funding to help residents upgrade their homes and lower bills. Bold moves towards sustainability were also mentioned, with all new large buildings in Boston required to be net zero from summer 2025.
Wu concluded her address with a focus on community strength, family values, and a commitment to defending Boston's residents against any adversities they might face. As reported by the City of Boston, Wu declared, "God bless our City, God bless our people, and God save whoever messes with Boston."
